Konoba – A Taste of Croatia

Proprietor Daniel Pedisich shows off a dish prepared by Chef and Proprietor Bruno Oliveira

“Konoba” is the Croatian word for “Tavern” or “Wine Bar.” It is a Croatian inspired wine bar, lounge, and restaurant in the heart of Huntington Village. The ‘Craft Kitchen and Tasting Lounge’ is building on nearly a decade of success owning Huntington’s former Bin 56 Wine Bar. Chef and Proprietor Bruno Oliveira, along with Proprietor Daniel Pedisich, have created an exciting Modern European and international menu of small plates and specialties in an elegantly designed space with bar, banquet, and high top tables, optimized for large groups, and lounge area seating.

Food choices range from small plates and salads to full entrees and desserts. At each level, Chef Oliveira creates beautiful plated treats that are flavorful and robust.

For those who like thinly sliced uncooked steak, we suggest you sample the Filet Mignon Carpaccio, with capers, mixed greens, shaved Parmesan and Extra Virgin Olive Oil ($18.00) as a starter. It is light, tender and flavorful. Another favorite starter, or side dish, is the Crispy Brussels Sprouts ($12.00). Those who would normally turn their nose up at Brussel Sprouts, much try these. With shredded parmesan and creamy caper sauce for dipping, even a veggi-phobe will love the dish. You can also create your own sampler platter of savory cheeses and charcuterie, idle for accompanying their full and varied wine menu. A Foodie favorite from Bin 56 days is the Fuzi, (Istrian Truffle Fuzi Pasta) which comes with shrimp and parmesan cream ($19.00) and is excellent as a entree or a shared appetizer.

Cevapcici with ajvar is a flavorful and filling meal on an autumn night. It is a traditional dish of minced beef, lamb, and pork complimented by fries, red onion, pita and ajvar mixed vegetable spread ($23.00). If you are in a seafood mood, they have a mixed seafood grill entrée with Ahi tuna, Diver scallops and shrimp in a lemon butter sauce, or try the delicious grilled salmon kebabs with red pepper, red onion, and Mediterranean olives on a grilled pita. Another item on the menu that is great as a solo or shared plate is the fantastic Slavonian Flatbread served with Kulen (Slavanian Soppressata), red peppers, red onions, mozzarella cheese and vegetable marinara ($19.00).

For an incredible dessert, try the Palacinke. It is a Croatian style crepe filled with Nutella and topped with a generous portion of whipped cream which creates a light and flavorful way to end the meal ($12.00). The chocolate covered Bavarian pretzel is another of the many offerings that sweeten the end of a savory meal at Konoba.

Konoba is also listed on Open Table for its’ notable wine list. Tell owner Daniel what you like and he can match the perfect wine to your meal for a complete dining experience. If wine is not your drink of choice, they showcase many notable beers. One of the most popular beers they serve is Karlovacko, a bottled beer imported from Karlovac, Croatia. Konoba also has a full bar menu of fun specialty drinks such as a Figtini, Zagreb Mule, and Watermelon Smash.

On Sundays you can either order from the regular menu or enjoy the Sunday Brunch Addendum with dishes ranging from a traditional Belgium Waffle with fresh whipped cream, berries, and maple syrup ($16.00) to The Croatian Brunch A.K.A. ‘Marenda’ served with prosciutto, dalmatian cheese, pickle, fig spread, toast with Pasteta (paté of pork) and cabbage salad.

Whether you are stopping in for a full meal, late night snack, or just enjoying some liquid refreshments and live music, Konoba is sure to please.